The California Supreme Court in a 6-1 ruling has decided to uphold Proposition 8 which amends the California Constitution to prohibit same-sex marriage. The 18,000 same-sex marriages performed prior to the election will remain valid however despite the ruling as most analysts expected. It’s unclear if the marriage equality victories in Iowa and several New England states had any impact on the Court’s decision.

The earliest Prop 8 can now be overturned is 2010 or 2012 provided a ballot initiative is introduced that ultimately strikes down the amendment.

There are several events throughout the country this evening to protest the Court’s decision. Please visit the Day of Decision website for a complete list of cities and events.

Photos from today’s ruling outside the California Supreme Court:

The California Supreme Court will finally announce its ruling next Tuesday, May 26 at 10am on Proposition 8. The measure which passed last November, wrote discrimination into the California constitution by disallowing same-sex couples the right to marry. More details here (pdf).

Depending on the ruling, celebrations or protests are scheduled to occur throughout the state and across the nation early next week. To find out about events that may be occurring in your area visit the DayOfDecision.com